Zombo, Uganda: The Alur Kingdom has intensified a sensitisation campaign targeting elderly and vulnerable persons, focusing on healthy living, early disease detection, and improved access to care.
The initiative aims to address growing health challenges among older populations, particularly the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension and diabetes.
Alur Kingdom Minister of Health, Dr. Amos Nyathirombu, said the campaign prioritises awareness and early detection of major health risks affecting the elderly.
“Healthy living for the middle-aged and the elderly is key for early detection and management of common killer diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes,” Dr. Nyathirombu said.
He also warned against rising cases of drug and alcohol abuse among the youth, calling for collective action to protect communities.
Despite the availability of health facilities, many older persons face barriers including poverty, mobility limitations, and the high cost of treatment.
Studies indicate that while a majority can physically reach health centres, utilisation remains low due to economic and social constraints.
Recent data shows diabetes is an increasing cause of death in Uganda, with an estimated 2,750 fatalities among adults aged 20–79 in 2024.
The King of Alur, His Majesty Ubimu Phillip Rauni Ularker III, has consistently championed health awareness campaigns, including efforts to combat HIV/AIDS and promote responsible lifestyles.
Speaking during a burial in Arua City on March 27, Dr. Nyathirombu reiterated the importance of adopting healthy living practices to prevent premature deaths among older persons.
The Kingdom has recently adopted 11 strategies to reduce HIV prevalence within its jurisdictions, currently estimated at 4% in Zombo, 3% in Nebbi, and 3% in Pakwach.
Leaders say the campaign also seeks to challenge harmful cultural practices that negatively affect health outcomes.
Alur Kingdom Prime Minister (Jadipu), Prince Lawrence Opar Angala, said the outreach is part of broader community sensitisation efforts. “This forms part of Ker Alur campaigns on healthy living, especially for the elderly and vulnerable persons,” he noted.
In Zombo District, leaders have raised concern over rising deaths among older persons, linked to poverty, social isolation, and limited access to healthcare.
Reports presented by Councillor for Older Persons Tom Orwodhi prompted calls for structured interventions, including dedicated healthcare days for elderly populations.
“We are optimistic that targeted programmes will be approved to address the unique health and social challenges faced by older persons,” Orwodhi said.
At the national level, government has introduced initiatives such as the Social Assistance Grants for Empowerment (SAGE), which provides monthly support to elderly citizens.
Currently benefiting over 306,000 people aged 80 and above, the programme is being expanded to cover over 1 million beneficiaries by lowering the eligibility age to 65 years.
Health experts note that older persons remain highly vulnerable to NCDs, including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory illnesses, and diabetes—conditions that continue to drive mortality rates.
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